'''Downtown Detroit''' is the central business district of [[Detroit]], bordered by the Lodge Freeway to the west, the Fisher Freeway to the north, Interstate 375 to the east, and the Detroit River to the south. The area contains most of the prominent skyscrapers in Detroit, the nation's second largest theatre district, several parks, many of which are linked by the Detroit International Riverfront, three casinos, and much more that is sure to make your visit a unique and memorable one.

'''Downtown Detroit''' is the central business district of [[Detroit]], bordered by the Lodge Freeway to the west, the Fisher Freeway to the north, Interstate 375 to the east, and the Detroit River to the south. The area contains most of the prominent skyscrapers in Detroit, the nation's second largest theatre district, several parks, many of which are linked by the Detroit International Riverfront, three casinos, and much more that is sure to make your visit a unique and memorable one.

==Understand==

==Understand==

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Anyone who visits downtown Detroit will be pleasantly surprised to see one of America's best preserved collection of late nineteenth and early twentieth century buildings standing beside the contemporary. Casino resorts add an air of excitement to the entertainment hub of the region. The International Riverfront is teaming with activity. Restaurant clusters emanate from Greektown, the Renaissance Center, and downtown stadiums. Downtown, with its revitalized riverfront area, has evolved into a popular place to reside with many new high rise lofts and restored historic homes. In the past decade, the area and the entire city has seen many historic buildings renovated, many parks open, and much more.

Anyone who visits downtown Detroit will be pleasantly surprised to see one of America's best preserved collection of late nineteenth and early twentieth century buildings standing beside the contemporary. Casino resorts add an air of excitement to the entertainment hub of the region. The International Riverfront is teaming with activity. Restaurant clusters emanate from Greektown, the Renaissance Center, and downtown stadiums. Downtown, with its revitalized riverfront area, has evolved into a popular place to reside with many new high rise lofts and restored historic homes. In the past decade, the area and the entire city has seen many historic buildings renovated, many parks open, and much more.

==Get in==

==Get in==

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===By car===

===By car===

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The most popular way of getting to Detroit is by car. The area has many parking garages and is easy to access from the freeways, parking prices aren't bad.

The most popular way of getting to Detroit is by car. The area has many parking garages and is easy to access from the freeways, parking prices aren't bad.

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*If '''coming from the east''': take I-94 West and merge onto I-75 South/Chrysler Freeway via Exit 261A toward Toledo. Continue onto I-375 South/Chrysler Freeway via Exit 51C on the left toward the Civic Center. Turn left onto Jefferson Ave. E and turn right onto Woodward Avenue, and you will be in Downtown.

*If '''coming from the east''': take I-94 West and merge onto I-75 South/Chrysler Freeway via Exit 261A toward Toledo. Continue onto I-375 South/Chrysler Freeway via Exit 51C on the left toward the Civic Center. Turn left onto Jefferson Ave. E and turn right onto Woodward Avenue, and you will be in Downtown.

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===By Bus===

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===By bus===

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Detroit is often overlooked as having ''no'' transit system, when in reality it has two bus systems and a Downtown People Mover. The Rosa Parks Transit Center is the central hub of the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT). Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transit (SMART) buses also serve the transit center. Look up bus times at transit.google.com

Detroit is often overlooked as having ''no'' transit system, when in reality it has two bus systems and a Downtown People Mover. The Rosa Parks Transit Center is the central hub of the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT). Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transit (SMART) buses also serve the transit center. Look up bus times at transit.google.com

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==See==

==See==

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[[Image:Ren Cen view from the Riverfront.jpg|thumb|220px|The Renaissance Center from the Detroit International Riverfront]]

[[Image:Ren Cen view from the Riverfront.jpg|thumb|220px|The Renaissance Center from the Detroit International Riverfront]]

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* <see name="Renaissance Center" alt="" address="Jefferson Ave" directions="btwn Brush St and Beaubien" phone="+1 313 567-3126" url="http://www.gmrencen.com/" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">This group of seven interconnected skyscrapers contains the tallest building in Michigan and is considered a symbol of Detroit. The entire complex is owned by General Motors as its headquarters. The central tower, called the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center, was built as the tallest hotel in the world, rising 73 stories at 727 feet, but taller hotels have been constructed in recent years in cities such as Dubai, so it has to settle for the title as tallest hotel in the Western Hemisphere. It also features the world's largest rooftop restaurant, Coach Insignia. Free tours of the complex are offered Monday thru Saturday at 10 am, noon, 2 pm, and 4 pm. Highlights of the tour include: the GM Wintergraden, a tropical atrium overlooking the Detroit River; GMnext Showroom, a display of classic and concept cars; "Borealis" Glass Sculpture, the tallest vertical glass sculpture in the world; Riverfront Plaza and Promenade; and a glass elevator ride to the 72nd floor, which offers great views that extend 30 miles (48 km) in all directions. The Renaissance Center also has its own station on the People Mover, located in Tower 200 on level 2.</see>

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* <see name="Renaissance Center" alt="" address="Jefferson Ave" directions="btwn Brush St and Beaubien" phone="+1 313 567-3126" url="http://www.gmrencen.com/" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">This group of seven interconnected skyscrapers contains the tallest building in Michigan and is considered a symbol of Detroit. The entire complex is owned by General Motors as its headquarters. The central tower, called the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center, was built as the tallest hotel in the world, rising 73 stories at 727 feet, but taller hotels have been constructed in recent years in cities such as Dubai, so it has to settle for the title as tallest all-hotel skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere. It also features the world's largest rooftop restaurant, Coach Insignia. Free tours of the complex are offered Monday thru Saturday at 10 am, noon, 2 pm, and 4 pm. Highlights of the tour include: the GM Wintergraden, a tropical atrium overlooking the Detroit River; GMnext Showroom, a display of classic and concept cars; "Borealis" Glass Sculpture, the tallest vertical glass sculpture in the world; Riverfront Plaza and Promenade; and a glass elevator ride to the 72nd floor, which offers great views that extend 30 miles (48 km) in all directions. The Renaissance Center also has its own station on the People Mover, located in Tower 200 on level 2.</see>

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* <see name="Old Mariners' Church" alt="" address="170 E Jefferson Ave" directions="" phone="+1 313 259-2206" url="http://marinerschurchofdetroit.org/" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">The Old Mariners' Church is an Anglican church completed in 1859. Established to serve mariners (hence the name), the church holds a Blessing of the Fleet every March for those going out to sea, and a Great Lakes Memorial Service for those who have lost their lives at sea every November. The nearest People Mover Station to the church is the Financial District Station, located on Larned, between Shelby and Griswold Street.

* <see name="Old Mariners' Church" alt="" address="170 E Jefferson Ave" directions="" phone="+1 313 259-2206" url="http://marinerschurchofdetroit.org/" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">The Old Mariners' Church is an Anglican church completed in 1859. Established to serve mariners (hence the name), the church holds a Blessing of the Fleet every March for those going out to sea, and a Great Lakes Memorial Service for those who have lost their lives at sea every November. The nearest People Mover Station to the church is the Financial District Station, located on Larned, between Shelby and Griswold Street.

</see>

</see>

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===Historic neighborhoods===

===Historic neighborhoods===

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* <see name="Greektown" alt="" address="along Monroe Ave between Brush and St. Antoine Sts" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.visitgreektown.com/index.html" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">This historic neighborhood is dominated by Greek restaurants. Some buildings on Monroe Street resemble the Parthenon, Pegasus, and other forms of Ancient Greek architecture. Greek music is also played on Monroe Street throughout the day. One of Detroit's three casino's, Greektown Casino, is located in the neighborhood and has a station on the People Mover on level 3.

* <see name="Greektown" alt="" address="along Monroe Ave between Brush and St. Antoine Sts" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.visitgreektown.com/index.html" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">This historic neighborhood is dominated by Greek restaurants. Some buildings on Monroe Street resemble the Parthenon, Pegasus, and other forms of Ancient Greek architecture. Greek music is also played on Monroe Street throughout the day. One of Detroit's three casino's, Greektown Casino, is located in the neighborhood and has a station on the People Mover on level 3.

</see>

</see>

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===Parks and monuments===

===Parks and monuments===

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* <see name="Campus Martius Park" alt="" address="Woodward and Michigan Aves" directions="" phone="+1 313 962-0101" url="http://www.campusmartiuspark.org/" hours="M-Th 7AM-10PM, F 7AM-midnight, Sa 9AM-midnight, Su 9AM-8PM" price="Free" lat="" long="">Campus Martius is the main park of Detroit. Hart Plaza, located on the Riverfront, was made to replace Campus Martius, but Hart Plaza is hard-surfaced, so Campus Martius was re-established. The new Campus Martius Park includes two stages, sculptures, public spaces and a seasonal ice skating rink. '''Cadillac Square Park''', located immediately to the east of Campus Martius, was recently made to increase the amount of park space. Several skyscrapers surround Campus Martius Park. The more popular of these include: Compuware World Headquarters, which is home to a beautiful lobby and several shops and stores; Cadillac Tower, which will be connected to the under-construction Cadillac Centre, which will be built in a similar architectural style as the Guggenheim Museums; and 1001 Woodward, which is the only building in Detroit in the Chicago-style architecture. The park is also home to a few historic monuments, such as Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, which is a Civil War monument first unveiled in 1872, and Bagley Memorial Fountain, which is a monument to 16th governor of Michigan, John J. Bagley, who's will contained $5,000 for the construction of a drinking fountain for the people of Detroit, to have "water cold and pure as the coldest mountain stream." The nearest People Mover station to Campus Martius Park is the Cadillac Center station, located at Gratiot Avenue and Library Street.

* <see name="Campus Martius Park" alt="" address="Woodward and Michigan Aves" directions="" phone="+1 313 962-0101" url="http://www.campusmartiuspark.org/" hours="M-Th 7AM-10PM, F 7AM-midnight, Sa 9AM-midnight, Su 9AM-8PM" price="Free" lat="" long="">Campus Martius is the main park of Detroit. Hart Plaza, located on the Riverfront, was made to replace Campus Martius, but Hart Plaza is hard-surfaced, so Campus Martius was re-established. The new Campus Martius Park includes two stages, sculptures, public spaces and a seasonal ice skating rink. '''Cadillac Square Park''', located immediately to the east of Campus Martius, was recently made to increase the amount of park space. Several skyscrapers surround Campus Martius Park. The more popular of these include: Compuware World Headquarters, which is home to a beautiful lobby and several shops and stores; Cadillac Tower, which will be connected to the under-construction Cadillac Centre, which will be built in a similar architectural style as the Guggenheim Museums; and 1001 Woodward, which is the only building in Detroit in the Chicago-style architecture. The park is also home to a few historic monuments, such as Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, which is a Civil War monument first unveiled in 1872, and Bagley Memorial Fountain, which is a monument to 16th governor of Michigan, John J. Bagley, who's will contained $5,000 for the construction of a drinking fountain for the people of Detroit, to have "water cold and pure as the coldest mountain stream." The nearest People Mover station to Campus Martius Park is the Cadillac Center station, located at Gratiot Avenue and Library Street.

*<see name="Grand Circus Park" alt="" address="roughly bounded by Clifford, John R. and Adams Sts, and bisected by Woodward Ave" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.grandcircuspark.com/" hours="" price="Free" lat="" long="">This five-acre park connects Detroit's theater district to its financial center. The park is home to several statues and monuments, such as the Thomas Edison Memorial Fountain, a statue of former Detroit mayor, William C. Maybury, a statue of Hazen S. Pingree, former mayor of Detroit and former governor of Michigan, and the Russel Alger Memorial Fountain. Across the street from the park is the Victorian Gothic-styled Central United Methodist Church. The new headquarters for Quicken Loans is planned near this park. However, due to the park's proximity to the theater district, Comerica Park, and Ford Field, the fortunes of these skyscrapers are brighter, as many undergoing or are planned for renovation. Grand Circus Park has its own station on the people mover, located at Park Street, near Woodward Avenue.

*<see name="Grand Circus Park" alt="" address="roughly bounded by Clifford, John R. and Adams Sts, and bisected by Woodward Ave" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.grandcircuspark.com/" hours="" price="Free" lat="" long="">This five-acre park connects Detroit's theater district to its financial center. The park is home to several statues and monuments, such as the Thomas Edison Memorial Fountain, a statue of former Detroit mayor, William C. Maybury, a statue of Hazen S. Pingree, former mayor of Detroit and former governor of Michigan, and the Russel Alger Memorial Fountain. Across the street from the park is the Victorian Gothic-styled Central United Methodist Church. The new headquarters for Quicken Loans is planned near this park. However, due to the park's proximity to the theater district, Comerica Park, and Ford Field, the fortunes of these skyscrapers are brighter, as many undergoing or are planned for renovation. Grand Circus Park has its own station on the people mover, located at Park Street, near Woodward Avenue.

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===Architecture===

===Architecture===

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Detroit is home to one of the world's largest collections of late nineteenth and early twentieth century buildings. During the past decade, the city has restored many of its architecturally significant buildings. Several of Detroit's buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Detroit is definately one the best destinations for architecture buffs.

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Detroit is home to one of the world's largest collections of late nineteenth and early twentieth century buildings. During the past decade, the city has restored many of its architecturally significant buildings. Several of Detroit's buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Detroit is definitely one the best destinations for architecture buffs.

====Buildings====

====Buildings====

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*<see name="Comerica Tower at Detroit Center" alt="" address="500 Woodward Ave" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.property-website.com/pws/sites/20/live/" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">Comerica Tower is the second tallest building in Detroit, after the Renaissance Center, rising 619 ft (189 m). The building was constructed from 1991 to 1993. The building is famous for its postmodern architectural design topped with neo-gothic spires, which makes it blend in with the older buildings in Detroit. Built in 1993, visitors are often surprised to learn of the building's young age.

*<see name="Comerica Tower at Detroit Center" alt="" address="500 Woodward Ave" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.property-website.com/pws/sites/20/live/" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">Comerica Tower is the second tallest building in Detroit, after the Renaissance Center, rising 619 ft (189 m). The building was constructed from 1991 to 1993. The building is famous for its postmodern architectural design topped with neo-gothic spires, which makes it blend in with the older buildings in Detroit. Built in 1993, visitors are often surprised to learn of the building's young age.

*<see name="Wayne County Building" alt="" address="600 Randolph" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.nps.gov/history/nr/travel/detroit/d14.htm" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">This building, constructed in 1897, may be the country's finest surviving example of Roman Baroque architecture. The Wayne County Building also has a blend of Beaux-Arts and some elements of the neo-classical architectural style. The courthouse tower was originally 227' - 8 1/2" tall. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

*<see name="Wayne County Building" alt="" address="600 Randolph" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.nps.gov/history/nr/travel/detroit/d14.htm" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">This building, constructed in 1897, may be the country's finest surviving example of Roman Baroque architecture. The Wayne County Building also has a blend of Beaux-Arts and some elements of the neo-classical architectural style. The courthouse tower was originally 227' - 8 1/2" tall. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

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*<do name="North American International Auto Show" alt="" address="1 Washington Blvd" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.naias.com/" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">Held annually since 1907 (except from 1945 - 1952), it is the largest auto show in North America. It is held at Cobo Hall every January and is particularly important because Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler are headquartered in the area.</do>

*<do name="North American International Auto Show" alt="" address="1 Washington Blvd" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.naias.com/" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">Held annually since 1907 (except from 1945 - 1952), it is the largest auto show in North America. It is held at Cobo Hall every January and is particularly important because Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler are headquartered in the area.</do>

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*<do name="Detroit Jazz Festival" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="" url="http://detroitjazzfest.com/" hours="" price="" lat="" long="">Held every Labor Day weekend at Hart Plaza, it is one of the largest free jazz festivals in the country, with plenty of performances by both local and world renowned jazz artists.</do>

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===Gambling===

===Gambling===

Detroit is the largest American city to offer casino resorts.

Detroit is the largest American city to offer casino resorts.

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</do>

</do>

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*<do name="Caesars Windsor" alt="" address="377 Riverside Dr, East Windsor, ON, Canada" directions="" phone="" tollfree="+1 800-991-7777" url="http://www.caesarswindsor.com/" hours="" price="" lat="" long=""> Located just across the border in Windsor Ontario Canada, Caesars Windsor is Canada's largest casino. The lower Ontario drinking age allows people aged nineteen (19) or older entry, attracting a young and old individuals alike. Caesars Windsor provides a superior casino experience to anyone willing to cross the border south into Canada. This casino also provides free parking to anyone in downtown Windsor, and has it's own shuttle bus, and a direct connection to Transit Windsor's cross border service known as the "tunnel bus," the tunnel bus may be boarded at the Rosa Park's Transit Terminal in downtown Detroit.

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*<do name="Caesars Windsor" alt="" address="377 Riverside Dr, East Windsor, ON, Canada" directions="" phone="" tollfree="+1 800-991-7777" url="http://www.caesarswindsor.com/" hours="" price="" lat="" long=""> Located just across the border in Windsor Ontario Canada, Caesars Windsor is Canada's largest casino. The lower Ontario drinking age allows people aged nineteen (19) or older entry, attracting a young and old individuals alike. Caesars Windsor provides a superior casino experience to anyone willing to cross the border south into Canada (the one point on the Canada-Continental US border where one can do so). This casino also provides free parking to anyone in downtown Windsor, and has it's own shuttle bus, and a direct connection to Transit Windsor's cross border service known as the "tunnel bus," the tunnel bus may be boarded at the Rosa Park's Transit Terminal in downtown Detroit.

*<eat name="American Coney Island" address="114 W Lafayette" phone="+1 586 219-0995" email="eat@AmericanConeyIsland.com" fax="" hours="24 hours" price="Inexpensive" url="http://www.americanconeyisland.com/">Rival of the Lafayette Coney Island right next door. American's dogs feature a blander chili and less pungent onions, and the atmosphere is more American and less true to its Greek heritage.</eat>

* <drink name="The Town Pump Tavern" alt="" address="100 W Montcalm St" directions="" phone="" url="http://thetownpumptavern.com" hours="11AM-2AM daily" price="" lat="" long="">Located steps away from Comerica Park, Ford Field, the Fox Theatre and the Fillmore Theatre. this upscale watering hole is a good place to start start out at before a game or concert. They offer an extensive beer list with 18 beers on tap, and a full kitchen serving until 11:00 pm every evening. They have live music after home Lions and Tigers games, and DJs on the weekends.</drink>

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* <drink name="The Town Pump Tavern" alt="" address="100 W Montcalm St" directions="" phone="" url="http://thetownpumptavern.com" hours="11AM-2AM daily" price="" lat="" long="">Located steps away from Comerica Park, Ford Field, the Fox Theatre and the Fillmore Theatre. this upscale watering hole is a good place to start out at before a game or concert. They offer an extensive beer list with 18 beers on tap, and a full kitchen serving until 11:00 pm every evening. They have live music after home Lions and Tigers games, and DJs on the weekends.</drink>

==Sleep==

==Sleep==

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*[[Windsor (Ontario)|Windsor]], [[Ontario]], [[Canada]] -- lies just across the Ambassador Bridge (which is located in the [[Detroit/Southwest Side|Southwest Side]]. Or through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel which is located right next to the Renaissance Center (good to use if you see traffic backed up onto I-75). This heavily trafficked border crossing has shaped Windsor more than anything else; well-maintained, walkable streets, shops and restaurants, Caesar's Windsor (Canada's largest Casino), and adult entertainment. The lower drinking age (19) draws young Americans and ensures a vibrant club scene on weekends. Windsor provides great views of the Detroit skyline, especially on summer nights Windsor's waterfront. Since the passing of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, Crossing the border requires passport or an enhanced driver's license. A birth certificate or standard driver's license is no longer enough to make the crossing.

*[[Windsor (Ontario)|Windsor]], [[Ontario]], [[Canada]] -- lies just across the Ambassador Bridge (which is located in the [[Detroit/Southwest Side|Southwest Side]]. Or through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel which is located right next to the Renaissance Center (good to use if you see traffic backed up onto I-75). This heavily trafficked border crossing has shaped Windsor more than anything else; well-maintained, walkable streets, shops and restaurants, Caesar's Windsor (Canada's largest Casino), and adult entertainment. The lower drinking age (19) draws young Americans and ensures a vibrant club scene on weekends. Windsor provides great views of the Detroit skyline, especially on summer nights Windsor's waterfront. Since the passing of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, Crossing the border requires passport or an enhanced driver's license. A birth certificate or standard driver's license is no longer enough to make the crossing.

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{{IsPartOf|Detroit}}

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Revision as of 16:51, 6 January 2013

Brush Street in downtown Detroit

Downtown Detroit is the central business district of Detroit, bordered by the Lodge Freeway to the west, the Fisher Freeway to the north, Interstate 375 to the east, and the Detroit River to the south. The area contains most of the prominent skyscrapers in Detroit, the nation's second largest theatre district, several parks, many of which are linked by the Detroit International Riverfront, three casinos, and much more that is sure to make your visit a unique and memorable one.

Understand

Anyone who visits downtown Detroit will be pleasantly surprised to see one of America's best preserved collection of late nineteenth and early twentieth century buildings standing beside the contemporary. Casino resorts add an air of excitement to the entertainment hub of the region. The International Riverfront is teaming with activity. Restaurant clusters emanate from Greektown, the Renaissance Center, and downtown stadiums. Downtown, with its revitalized riverfront area, has evolved into a popular place to reside with many new high rise lofts and restored historic homes. In the past decade, the area and the entire city has seen many historic buildings renovated, many parks open, and much more.

Get in

By car

The most popular way of getting to Detroit is by car. The area has many parking garages and is easy to access from the freeways, parking prices aren't bad.

If coming from the south: take I-75 North toward Detroit and exit at Exit 49 to M-10. Exit on the left toward M-10/Lodge Freeway/Civic Center. Take the M-10 South exit toward the Civic Center and then merge onto the Lodge Freeway/M-10 South. The Lodge Freeway/M-10 becomes Jefferson Avenue. Finally, turn left onto Woodward Avenue, and you will be in Downtown.

If coming from the west: take I-96 East and take the I-75 North/M-10 exit on the left toward Flint/Civic Center. Continue to the M-10/Lodge Freeway exit toward Rosa Parks Boulevard/Civic Center and then exit on the left toward M-10/Lodge Freeway/Civic Center. Take the M-10 South exit toward the Civic Center and then merge onto John C Lodge Fwy/M-10 South. The Lodge Freeway/M-10 becomes Jefferson Avenue. Finally, turn left onto Woodward Avenue, and you will be in Downtown.

If coming from the north: take I-75 South and continue onto I-375 South/Chrysler Fwy via Exit 51C on the left toward the Civic Center. Turn left onto Jefferson Avenue. E and turn right onto Woodward Avenue, and you will be in Downtown.

If coming from the east: take I-94 West and merge onto I-75 South/Chrysler Freeway via Exit 261A toward Toledo. Continue onto I-375 South/Chrysler Freeway via Exit 51C on the left toward the Civic Center. Turn left onto Jefferson Ave. E and turn right onto Woodward Avenue, and you will be in Downtown.

By bus

Detroit is often overlooked as having no transit system, when in reality it has two bus systems and a Downtown People Mover. The Rosa Parks Transit Center is the central hub of the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT). Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transit (SMART) buses also serve the transit center. Look up bus times at transit.google.com

After arriving at the transit center, hop on the people mover by walking either south to the Michigan Ave Station or north to the Times Square Station. The people mover is the easiest way of getting around Downtown.

The first segment of a light-rail system is planned for Woodward Ave. Downtown stations have not yet been configured, but they should soon be announced. Construction may begin as early as this summer (2010).

See

The Renaissance Center from the Detroit International Riverfront

Renaissance Center, Jefferson Ave (btwn Brush St and Beaubien), ☎+1 313 567-3126, [1]. This group of seven interconnected skyscrapers contains the tallest building in Michigan and is considered a symbol of Detroit. The entire complex is owned by General Motors as its headquarters. The central tower, called the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center, was built as the tallest hotel in the world, rising 73 stories at 727 feet, but taller hotels have been constructed in recent years in cities such as Dubai, so it has to settle for the title as tallest all-hotel skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere. It also features the world's largest rooftop restaurant, Coach Insignia. Free tours of the complex are offered Monday thru Saturday at 10 am, noon, 2 pm, and 4 pm. Highlights of the tour include: the GM Wintergraden, a tropical atrium overlooking the Detroit River; GMnext Showroom, a display of classic and concept cars; "Borealis" Glass Sculpture, the tallest vertical glass sculpture in the world; Riverfront Plaza and Promenade; and a glass elevator ride to the 72nd floor, which offers great views that extend 30 miles (48 km) in all directions. The Renaissance Center also has its own station on the People Mover, located in Tower 200 on level 2.

Old Mariners' Church, 170 E Jefferson Ave, ☎+1 313 259-2206, [2]. The Old Mariners' Church is an Anglican church completed in 1859. Established to serve mariners (hence the name), the church holds a Blessing of the Fleet every March for those going out to sea, and a Great Lakes Memorial Service for those who have lost their lives at sea every November. The nearest People Mover Station to the church is the Financial District Station, located on Larned, between Shelby and Griswold Street.

Historic neighborhoods

Greektown, along Monroe Ave between Brush and St. Antoine Sts, [3]. This historic neighborhood is dominated by Greek restaurants. Some buildings on Monroe Street resemble the Parthenon, Pegasus, and other forms of Ancient Greek architecture. Greek music is also played on Monroe Street throughout the day. One of Detroit's three casino's, Greektown Casino, is located in the neighborhood and has a station on the People Mover on level 3.

Bricktown, btwn Greektown and the Renaissance Center. Bricktown is an historic district that is home to St. Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church, the oldest standing church in Detroit, and the Italian Renaissance style Wayne County Building. The neighborhood also has its own station on the People Mover on Beaubien Street, north of Congress Street.

Broadway Avenue, along Broadway Ave btwn Gratiot and E Grand River. This neighborhood is located on a single block of Broadway Avenue and consists of eleven commercial buildings built between 1896 and 1926. The architectural terra cotta used on the buildings gives the neighborhood a distinct look. The Broadway People Mover Station, which is the nearest station, is located at the corner of Broadway and John R. Road.

Capitol Park, bounded by Shelby, Griswold, and State Sts, [4]. This park and seventeen surrounding buildings are included in the Capitol Park Historic District. Some of the more famous ones are the Art Deco-style David Stott Building, and the Modern Movement-style Griswold Building. The nearest People Mover station to this historic place is the Times Square Station, located on Grand River, between Cass and Washington Boulevard.

Buildings on Washington Boulevard, including the Book Tower which is the tallest among them

Washington Boulevard, bounded by Washington Blvd between State and Clifford Sts. This neighborhood is a multi-block area on which some of Detroit's most architecturally significant buildings are situated. It includes the Book-Cadillac Hotel, the Book Tower, the Industrial-Stevens Apartments, and Washington Square among other buildings. The Times Square Station on the People Mover is located right in this historic district, at Grand River Avenue, between Cass and Washington Boulevards.

Parks and monuments

Campus Martius Park, Woodward and Michigan Aves, ☎+1 313 962-0101, [5]. M-Th 7AM-10PM, F 7AM-midnight, Sa 9AM-midnight, Su 9AM-8PM. Campus Martius is the main park of Detroit. Hart Plaza, located on the Riverfront, was made to replace Campus Martius, but Hart Plaza is hard-surfaced, so Campus Martius was re-established. The new Campus Martius Park includes two stages, sculptures, public spaces and a seasonal ice skating rink. Cadillac Square Park, located immediately to the east of Campus Martius, was recently made to increase the amount of park space. Several skyscrapers surround Campus Martius Park. The more popular of these include: Compuware World Headquarters, which is home to a beautiful lobby and several shops and stores; Cadillac Tower, which will be connected to the under-construction Cadillac Centre, which will be built in a similar architectural style as the Guggenheim Museums; and 1001 Woodward, which is the only building in Detroit in the Chicago-style architecture. The park is also home to a few historic monuments, such as Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, which is a Civil War monument first unveiled in 1872, and Bagley Memorial Fountain, which is a monument to 16th governor of Michigan, John J. Bagley, who's will contained $5,000 for the construction of a drinking fountain for the people of Detroit, to have "water cold and pure as the coldest mountain stream." The nearest People Mover station to Campus Martius Park is the Cadillac Center station, located at Gratiot Avenue and Library Street. Free.

Looking up the David Broderick Tower at Grand Circus Park

Grand Circus Park, roughly bounded by Clifford, John R. and Adams Sts, and bisected by Woodward Ave, [6]. This five-acre park connects Detroit's theater district to its financial center. The park is home to several statues and monuments, such as the Thomas Edison Memorial Fountain, a statue of former Detroit mayor, William C. Maybury, a statue of Hazen S. Pingree, former mayor of Detroit and former governor of Michigan, and the Russel Alger Memorial Fountain. Across the street from the park is the Victorian Gothic-styled Central United Methodist Church. The new headquarters for Quicken Loans is planned near this park. However, due to the park's proximity to the theater district, Comerica Park, and Ford Field, the fortunes of these skyscrapers are brighter, as many undergoing or are planned for renovation. Grand Circus Park has its own station on the people mover, located at Park Street, near Woodward Avenue. Free.

Detroit International Riverfront, along the Detroit River from the Ambassador Bridge to the MacArthur Bridge, ☎+1 313 566-8200, [7]. Detroit's riverfront is a 5½-mile (8.8 km) promenade along the Detroit River running from the Ambassador Bridge to Belle Isle, encompassing a multitude of parks, restaurants, retail shops, skyscrapers, and high rise residential areas. The path is located directly on the river and is 62 feet (18¾ m) wide in most places, with separate lanes for pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Pavilions, fishing piers, and benches are located at intervals along the path. The east RiverWalk connects various riverfront developments, including Hart Plaza, the Renaissance Center, GM Plaza and Promenade, Tri-Centennial State Park, Stroh River Place, Chene Park, and Gabriel Richard Park. The nearest People Mover station to the riverfront is the Joe Louis Arena Station, which is located inside Joe Louis Arena. Free.

Hart Plaza, immediately S of the intersection of Woodward and Jefferson Aves, [8]. This park is an open, mostly hard-surfaced park along the Detroit River. It is located more or less on the site where Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac landed in 1701 when he founded Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit, the settlement that became Detroit. The 14 acres (5.7 ha) plaza, which is named after the late U.S. Senator Philip Hart, opened in 1975 and has a capacity of 40,000 people. The park conatians several sculptures and monuments, including: Dodge Fountain, which is located at the center of the park; Transcending, which is a Michigan Labor Legacy Landmark, located at the entrance of the park; Monolith, a sculpture by Isamu Noguchi; a statue of George Washington; and the Joe Louis Memorial, which is a giganitc sculpture of Joe Louis' fist. The nearest People Mover station to Hart Plaza is the Financial District Station, located on Larned, between Shelby and Griswold Street. Free.

Spirit of Detroit, cnr of Jefferson and Woodward Aves. The Spirit of Detroit is a city monument with a large bronze statue situated in front of the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, home to Detroit's city hall. It was commissioned in 1955 for a cost of $58,000, and dedicated in 1958. In its left hand, the statue holds a bronze sphere with rays to symbolize God. In its right hand, is a family group symbolizing human relationships. The 26 foot (7.9 m) sculpture is frequently dressed in sports jerseys when local professional teams are in the playoffs. The nearest People Mover station to the monument is the Millender Center Station, which is located inside the Millender Center on the 5th floor.

Architecture

Detroit is home to one of the world's largest collections of late nineteenth and early twentieth century buildings. During the past decade, the city has restored many of its architecturally significant buildings. Several of Detroit's buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Detroit is definitely one the best destinations for architecture buffs.

Buildings

Comerica Tower at Detroit Center, 500 Woodward Ave, [9]. Comerica Tower is the second tallest building in Detroit, after the Renaissance Center, rising 619 ft (189 m). The building was constructed from 1991 to 1993. The building is famous for its postmodern architectural design topped with neo-gothic spires, which makes it blend in with the older buildings in Detroit. Built in 1993, visitors are often surprised to learn of the building's young age.

Penobscot Building, 645 Griswold St, [10]. The building was the tallest in Michigan from its completion in 1928 until the construction of the Renaissance Center's central tower in 1977. It is now the third tallest. Like many of the city's other Roaring Twenties buildings, it has Art Deco influences, including its "H" shape, which allows maximum sunlight into the building, and the sculptural setbacks that cause the upper floors to seem to "erode".

Guardian Building, 500 Griswold St, [11]. Built in 1929, the building is a bold example of Art Deco architecture, including art moderne designs. At the top of the Guardian Building's spire, is a large American Flag, complementing the four smaller flags atop nearby 150 West Jefferson. The Guardian Building's interior is lavishly decorated with mosaic and Pewabic and Rookwood tile. The semi-circular exterior domes are filled with Pewabic Pottery. The building was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1989. It was used as headquarters for production during World War II.

The Westin Book-Cadillac Hotel

Westin Book Cadillac Hotel, 1114 Washington Blvd, [12]. Built in 1928, the Book Cadillac Hotel is an architectural gem that, after 20 years of vacancy, was remodeled into an upscale hotel in 2008. It was designed with neo-classical elements and building sculptures, incorporating brick and limestone. Among its notable features are the statues of General Anthony Wayne, Antoine Laumet de La Mothe, sieur de Cadillac, Chief Pontiac and Robert Navarre along the ornate Michigan Avenue facade and the three copper terraces at top the building.

Cadillac Tower, 65 Cadillac Sq, [13]. This Beaux Arts skyscraper was the first building outside of New York City and Chicago to have more than 40 floors. Cadillac Tower was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2005.

Fort Shelby Hotel, 525 W Lafayette Blvd, [14]. This historic upscale hotel was designed in the Beaux Arts style. Built in 1916, it underwent renovation in 2008 and is the first full-service Hilton brand hotel to operate in the city in 33 years. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.

Wayne County Building

Wayne County Building, 600 Randolph, [15]. This building, constructed in 1897, may be the country's finest surviving example of Roman Baroque architecture. The Wayne County Building also has a blend of Beaux-Arts and some elements of the neo-classical architectural style. The courthouse tower was originally 227' - 8 1/2" tall. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

Churches

Fort Street Presbyterian Church, 631 W Fort St, [16]. This church was constructed in 1855, and completely rebuilt in 1876. It is an ornately detailed Gothic Revival structure built of limestone ashlar. The facade features a 265-foot (81 m) tall square tower with a spire on one side and a shorter octagonal turret on the other. A central stained glass window illuminates the sanctuary. There are seven bays along the side of the church with flying buttresses, crocketed finials, lacy stonework and tall windows, which was designed to give the impression of light.

St. John's Episcopal Church, I-75 and Woodward Ave, [17]. Built in 1860, this church was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. It was designed in the Gothic Revival architectural-style.

Do

The Windsor-Detroit International Freedom Festival celebrates Canada Day and U.S. Independence Day

Events

America's Thanksgiving Day Parade, [18]. This parade has been going on for quite some time. It runs down Woodward Avenue every Thanksgiving.

Detroit Electronic Music Festival, [19]. Held every Memorial Day weekend since 2000, this festival is about electronic dance music, hence the name.

Motown Winter Blast, [20]. Held in February every year in Campus Martius Park, it includes ice skating, concerts, and a street party in Greektown. This multi-day event has drawn crowds of over one million people.

North American International Auto Show, 1 Washington Blvd, [21]. Held annually since 1907 (except from 1945 - 1952), it is the largest auto show in North America. It is held at Cobo Hall every January and is particularly important because Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler are headquartered in the area.

Detroit Jazz Festival, [22]. Held every Labor Day weekend at Hart Plaza, it is one of the largest free jazz festivals in the country, with plenty of performances by both local and world renowned jazz artists.

Gambling

Detroit is the largest American city to offer casino resorts.

MGM Grand Detroit, 1777 Third St, (toll free: +1 888-646-3387), [23]. The MGM Grand Detroit is the first luxury casino resort in a major metropolis outside of Las Vegas or Atlantic City, and the first in downtown Detroit. The permanent casino opened its doors to the public on October 3, 2007.

The Greektown Casino Hotel

MotorCity Casino, 2901 Grand River Ave, (toll free: +1 866-782-9622), [24]. The MotorCity Casino is a newly expanded and renovated $300 million casino hotel. It incorporates the historic Wagner Baking Company building circa 1915. As part of the renovation, the cornerstone of this former Wonder Bread bakery has been fully restored to its original condition, preserving the signature features of the 93-year old Detroit landmark.

Greektown Casino, 555 E Lafayette, (toll free: +1 888-771-4386), [25]. This casino is scheduled to be completed sometime in 2009. The casino is still open for gaming, however the hotel is being finished. Greektown casino is located in Greektown and includes several Greek restaurants. The casino has its own People Mover Station, on level 3.

Caesars Windsor, 377 Riverside Dr, East Windsor, ON, Canada, (toll free: +1 800-991-7777), [26]. Located just across the border in Windsor Ontario Canada, Caesars Windsor is Canada's largest casino. The lower Ontario drinking age allows people aged nineteen (19) or older entry, attracting a young and old individuals alike. Caesars Windsor provides a superior casino experience to anyone willing to cross the border south into Canada (the one point on the Canada-Continental US border where one can do so). This casino also provides free parking to anyone in downtown Windsor, and has it's own shuttle bus, and a direct connection to Transit Windsor's cross border service known as the "tunnel bus," the tunnel bus may be boarded at the Rosa Park's Transit Terminal in downtown Detroit.

Theater

Foxtown, located along Woodward Avenue, is the nickname of Detroit's theater district. The name comes from the city's Fox Theatre, which is the largest of the nation's fox theaters. Foxtown is home to dozens of performing arts venues. It is the second largest theater district in the United States, after New York City's Broadway. The theater district lies in the northern end of downtown Detroit, bordering Midtown. The nearest People Mover stations to the area are the Grand Circus Park Station, which is located at Park Street, near Woodward Avenue, and the Broadway Station, which is located at the corner of Broadway and John R. Some of the more popular theaters include:

Fox Theatre, 2111 Woodward Ave, ☎+1 248 433-1515, [27]. The Fox is the second largest theater in the country after Radio City Music Hall in New York City. The theater was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1989 and was one of the first theaters to feature live sound. The exterior of the attached 10-story building features an Art Deco facade, which lights up at night and can be seen for several blocks. The Fox is Detroit’s top venue for Broadway shows.

Detroit Masonic Temple, 500 Temple Ave, ☎+1 313 832-7100, [28]. This theater is the second largest in Detroit. The 4,404-seat theater is a prominent venue for concerts, Broadway shows, and other events. Detroit Masonic Temple was designed in the neo-gothic architectural style, using a great deal of limestone.

The Fillmore Detroit

The Fillmore Detroit, 2115 Woodward Ave. Known as the State Theater throughout most of its history, The Fillmore Detroit is located next to the larger Fox Theater. The theater was designed as a movie house in the Renaissance Revival style of architecture

Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway St, ☎+1 313 237-7464, [29]. The Detroit Opera House is the venue for all Michigan Opera Theater productions and other events. This theater, which seats 2,700 people, first opened in 1922.

Orchestra Hall, 3711 Woodward Ave, ☎+1 313 576-5111, [30]. This orchestra hall is the home of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. The hall is renowned for its marvelous acoustic properties.

Music Hall Center For The Performing Arts, 250 Madison Ave, ☎+1 313 963-2366. Originally known as the Wilson Theatre.

Majestic Theatre, 4126-4140 Woodward Ave, ☎+1 313 833-9700, [31]. A beautiful theatre designed in Art Deco, now boasting the largest enameled metal panel Art Deco facade in the Detroit metropolitan area. The theater is currently hosts live musical acts.

Bonstelle Theatre, 3424 Woodward Ave, ☎+1 313 577-2960, [32]. The Bonstelle Theatre is the undergraduate theater used by Wayne State University. It was originally built in 1902 as the Temple Beth-El. The theater was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.

Gem Theatre, 333 Madison Ave, ☎+1 313 963-9800, [33]. This two-level theater used to be located in Foxtown, however due to the construction of Comerica Park, the home of the Detroit Tigers, it was moved on wheels five blocks to its present location. It is the furthest known relocation of a sizable building.

Pizza

Coney Island

The rival Coney Islands

Detroit is known for the greasy and messy Coney Island hot dog and for its Coney Island Restaurants which are open very late or even 24 hours to catch the late-night bar crowd.

American Coney Island, 114 W Lafayette, ☎+1 586 219-0995 (eat@AmericanConeyIsland.com), [42]. 24 hours. Rival of the Lafayette Coney Island right next door. American's dogs feature a blander chili and less pungent onions, and the atmosphere is more American and less true to its Greek heritage.Inexpensive.

Lafayette Coney Island, 118 W Lafayette Blvd, ☎+1 313 964-8198. Rival of the American Coney Island right next door. Lafayette's dogs feature a spicier chili, more flavourful onions, a smaller, more intimate dining area and emphasis on its Greek heritage.Inexpensive.

Leo's Coney Island, inside Comerica Park, ☎+1 313 471-2888, [43]. A chain that can be found all over metropolitan Detroit.

Mid-range

Hockeytown Cafe, 2301 Woodward Ave, ☎+1 313 965-9500, [45]. Across from Comerica Park. This restaurant doubles as a museum with Detroit Red Wings history and memorabilia as well as Tigers memorabilia and motorcycles.

River Cafe Detroit. Inside the Renaissance Center.

Small plates Detroit, 1521 Broadway St, ☎+1 313 963-0497, [46]. midnight-2AM (verify). As the name suggest, the plates are small but the food is good. This small restaurant is a good spot to sample and share diner with a few guest. With good Brick oven pizza, and a full bar this little gem is a solid dining spot.

Drink

Centaur Bar, 2233 Park Ave, ☎+1 313 963-4040, [53]. 4PM-2AM daily. This place is Detroit’s best martini bar, sports and entertainment district. This place has amazing architecture, swank lounge areas, masterful chefs, and choice of 21 specialty martinis changes seasonally. Always a good spot to stop at before a Tigers game, and you will need to stop here to drown your sorrows in after watching the Detroit Lions play a game. No baseball hats are allowed on non-game days.

The Town Pump Tavern, 100 W Montcalm St, [60]. 11AM-2AM daily. Located steps away from Comerica Park, Ford Field, the Fox Theatre and the Fillmore Theatre. this upscale watering hole is a good place to start out at before a game or concert. They offer an extensive beer list with 18 beers on tap, and a full kitchen serving until 11:00 pm every evening. They have live music after home Lions and Tigers games, and DJs on the weekends.

Sleep

Budget

The Leland, 400 Bagley Ave. An older hotel with interesting architecture - a good cheap place for the adventurous. Multiple bars and nightclubs inside.

Splurge

Caesars Windsor Casino Resort, Windsor, Ontario, [63]. Luxury resort hotel with nice views of the Detroit skyline, 100,000 sq. ft of meeting space and a 5,000 seat performance center. Currently you must have a passport or birth certificate to cross the border.

Detroit Marriot at the Renaissance Center, Jefferson Ave, btwn Brush and Beaubien, ☎+1 313 568-8000, [64]. Luxury hotel overlooking the riverfront. The tallest hotel in the Western Hemisphere, it's connected to the elevated rail system known as the People Mover. Guests have included Ronald Reagan.Rooms from $130 & up.

Get out

Windsor, Ontario, Canada -- lies just across the Ambassador Bridge (which is located in the Southwest Side. Or through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel which is located right next to the Renaissance Center (good to use if you see traffic backed up onto I-75). This heavily trafficked border crossing has shaped Windsor more than anything else; well-maintained, walkable streets, shops and restaurants, Caesar's Windsor (Canada's largest Casino), and adult entertainment. The lower drinking age (19) draws young Americans and ensures a vibrant club scene on weekends. Windsor provides great views of the Detroit skyline, especially on summer nights Windsor's waterfront. Since the passing of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, Crossing the border requires passport or an enhanced driver's license. A birth certificate or standard driver's license is no longer enough to make the crossing.

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